Awareness Campaign Focused on Child Safety on the Road and Around Schools

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Each August, as the school year begins in Florida, students eagerly anticipate returning to the classroom, making new friends, and embracing the upcoming activities and challenges.

While many children consider themselves seasoned pros, others will experience many firsts as they ride a bus for the first time, use a crosswalk, or even receive homework. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) along with our division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and public safety partners at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Florida Department of Education (FLDOE), Florida School Boards Association (FSBA), Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), Florida Police Chiefs' Association (FPCA) and AAA-The Auto Club Group are working together to educate and raise awareness of how you can help your child have a safe start this school year.

"FLHSMV and our public safety partners are prioritizing and raising awareness of factors that impact our children's safety as the new school year begins. It's important to remember that not following these safety measures can lead to serious consequences," said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. "Florida is number one in education, including educating our youth and motorists on safety practices and legislation that impact them. These measures are in place to give everyone a safe start as they travel to and from school."

As the school year begins in Florida, increased traffic in school zones is expected. The Florida legislature recently passed House Bill 0657 and Senate Bill 0766, which authorize local jurisdictions to implement school zone speed detection systems and school bus passing infraction detection systems.

Using a handheld device while driving in designated school crossing, school zone, or active work zone areas is prohibited.

To ensure safety, drivers should be vigilant, follow reduced speed limits in school zones, and park only in designated areas.

Backover incidents involving vehicles can be avoided by checking mirrors, lowering windows, and backing out slowly.

Pedestrians should use designated crosswalks and walk facing traffic in areas without sidewalks.

Seat belts save lives and are essential for all drivers and passengers under 18.

To prevent vehicular heatstroke, always check the backseat for children and pets before leaving the vehicle.

Visit the FLHSMV Safe Start Florida Child Safety Awareness Campaign for more resources and information.